Best places for expat families to live in Hong Kong
Hong Kong offers a wide range of neighborhoods for expat families, with varying lifestyles, amenities, and budgets. Whether you prefer a bustling city vibe, a quiet suburban feel, or something in between, there are several ideal areas for families looking to relocate. Here’s a guide to the best places for an expat family to live in Hong Kong, considering factors like family-friendly amenities, access to schools, green spaces, and general atmosphere.
1. Discovery Bay
Vibe: Suburban, Family-friendly, Relaxed
Perfect for: Families looking for a peaceful, community-oriented lifestyle
Why it’s great for families:
Discovery Bay, located on Lantau Island, is one of the top choices for expat families who want a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle outside of the hustle and bustle of central Hong Kong. The area is home to large, spacious townhouses and apartments, making it ideal for families needing more living space. Discovery Bay has its own community with plenty of green spaces, parks, beaches, and recreational facilities like swimming pools and tennis courts. The area also has a strong expat community, as well as international schools, making it easier for families to settle in.
Top spots: Discovery Bay Beach, The Plaza (shopping and dining)
Schools: Discovery Bay International School (DBIS), Discovery Bay International Kindergarten
Amenities: Parks, beaches, international schools, community center, fitness clubs
Housing: Spacious apartments, villas, and townhouses with sea views
Drawbacks: Far from the city center (requires ferry to reach Central)
2. Kowloon Tong
Vibe: Suburban, Green, Family-oriented
Perfect for: Families with children, those seeking quiet and spacious living
Why it’s great for families:
Kowloon Tong is a well-established and highly regarded residential area, known for its spacious homes, large gardens, and green spaces. It’s a quiet, suburban district with a strong focus on family life, making it one of the best places for expat families. Kowloon Tong is also home to some of Hong Kong's most prestigious international schools, which is a significant draw for families with school-aged children. The area is also well-connected to public transport, including the MTR, making it easy to access other parts of the city.
Top spots: Kowloon Tong Park, Lion Rock Country Park (hiking)
Schools: The British International School, Kowloon Junior School, Harrow International School
Amenities: Parks, shopping malls (Festival Walk), restaurants, easy MTR access
Housing: Larger, family-friendly apartments, spacious houses
Drawbacks: Further from the central business district
3. Mid-Levels
Vibe: Central, Green, Expensive
Perfect for: Families who want to live centrally but enjoy green space and quieter surroundings
Why it’s great for families:
Mid-Levels, located on the hillside above Central, offers an ideal balance of being close to the city while enjoying a quieter and more peaceful environment. It’s one of the most prestigious areas in Hong Kong, known for its stunning views of the city skyline and Victoria Harbour. Mid-Levels is family-friendly, with access to international schools, parks, and some of the city's top restaurants and cafes. It’s also well-served by public transportation, including the Peak Tram, making it easy to get to other areas in the city.
Top spots: Hong Kong Park, The Peak (hiking and views)
Schools: The Hong Kong International School, French International School, Hong Kong Academy
Amenities: Green spaces, playgrounds, close to Central's shopping, dining, and medical facilities
Housing: Luxury apartments, large family residences
Drawbacks: High rent, traffic congestion at times
4. Pok Fu Lam
Vibe: Quiet, Green, Family-oriented
Perfect for: Families who want to live close to nature while being within easy reach of the city
Why it’s great for families:
Pok Fu Lam is a peaceful, family-friendly neighborhood located on the western side of Hong Kong Island. It offers a green and tranquil environment with access to some of Hong Kong's best hiking trails and parks, making it a great location for families who enjoy outdoor activities. The area is also home to large residential complexes, including spacious apartments and houses. While it's slightly further from Central, it is still well-connected to public transportation and offers easy access to amenities like schools, shops, and medical facilities.
Top spots: Pok Fu Lam Country Park, The University of Hong Kong
Schools: International School of Hong Kong (ISHK), Kennedy School
Amenities: Green spaces, good transport links, shopping centers (Cyberport)
Housing: Spacious apartments and houses with sea views or mountain views
Drawbacks: Further from Central, but still accessible
5. Sha Tin (New Territories)
Vibe: Suburban, Peaceful, Family-focused
Perfect for: Families looking for spacious homes, access to nature, and a quieter lifestyle
Why it’s great for families:
Sha Tin, located in the New Territories, is an excellent option for expat families who are looking for more space at a more affordable price than central Hong Kong. Sha Tin offers spacious apartments and houses, with many located in large, modern residential developments. The area has plenty of green spaces, parks, and recreational facilities, including sports centers and hiking trails. Sha Tin is also home to several international schools, making it a great choice for families. While it’s a little further from the city, the area is well-connected by MTR and buses.
Top spots: Sha Tin Park, Hong Kong Heritage Museum, Ma On Shan Country Park
Schools: American International School, The Chinese International School, Sha Tin College
Amenities: Shopping malls (New Town Plaza), green spaces, sports facilities
Housing: Large family apartments and houses, more affordable than city center
Drawbacks: Further from Central (around 30-minute MTR ride)
6. Tuen Mun (New Territories)
Vibe: Peaceful, Suburban, Expansive
Perfect for: Families who prefer a quieter, more affordable lifestyle away from the hustle of the city
Why it’s great for families:
Tuen Mun is a more affordable, suburban neighborhood located in the New Territories. It offers plenty of space, and while it’s farther from Central, it has good MTR links. Tuen Mun is home to larger homes and more budget-friendly apartments, which can be a great choice for families who need more room. The area is also close to several large parks, beaches, and outdoor recreational areas, making it ideal for families who enjoy spending time outdoors.
Top spots: Tuen Mun Park, Golden Beach
Schools: Tuen Mun International School, Hong Kong International School (Tuen Mun campus)
Amenities: Shopping malls (Tuen Mun Town Plaza), parks, recreational centers
Housing: Large, affordable apartments and houses with more space
Drawbacks: Far from Central (about 45-60 minutes by MTR)
7. Wong Chuk Hang / Aberdeen
Vibe: Quiet, Coastal, Family-friendly
Perfect for: Families who want easy access to both nature and the city, with a more affordable cost of living than in Central
Why it’s great for families:
Located just a short distance from the central business district, Wong Chuk Hang and Aberdeen offer a quieter, more relaxed environment for families while still being close enough to enjoy the perks of city life. These areas offer coastal living with waterfront views and access to outdoor spaces, as well as affordable housing options compared to more central areas. Aberdeen has a charming fishing village vibe, while Wong Chuk Hang is more modern, with a growing selection of cafes, restaurants, and recreational facilities.
Top spots: Aberdeen Harbour, Ocean Park, Wong Chuk Hang Promenade
Schools: Hong Kong International School, The British International School
Amenities: Easy access to public transport, supermarkets, restaurants, parks
Housing: Affordable apartments, some with sea views
Drawbacks: Still a bit further from Central
Hong Kong florist tips
When it comes to choosing the best place for an expat family to live in Hong Kong, it really depends on your priorities. For families seeking a peaceful, community-oriented environment, Discovery Bay and Kowloon Tong are ideal. If you prefer proximity to nature, Pok Fu Lam or Sha Tin might be the right fit. For those who want to be near the action but with space for kids, Mid-Levels or Wong Chuk Hang offer a great balance.
Whatever your preference, Hong Kong’s family-friendly neighborhoods offer a wide variety of options that cater to diverse needs, ensuring that your family can settle in comfortably and enjoy everything this vibrant city has to offer.
https://www.hk-cityguide.com/expat-guide/guide-to-hong-kongs-best-moving-companies
